Legacy development expert offers free tips in honor of Make A Difference Day

RENO, NVWomen professionals and business owners are putting their unique mark on the world by creating positive changes not only in business but also in their communities. There are more women who have created successful enterprises and built significant wealth than ever before. Many of these successful women are also making significant positive changes in their communities and the world at large by creating lasting legacies- in keeping with the purpose of Make A Difference Day on October 24.

“These incredible women leaders – who often don’t see themselves that way – have enjoyed rewarding careers, built their own businesses and experienced tremendous success, and are now looking for ways to give back to their communities in a long-term, sustainable way,” says Dolly Garlo, RN, JD, PCC who advises successful mid-career women who are considering just that, and what’s next beyond their careers. “I receive numerous calls and emails from women with amazing backgrounds, knowledge and skills who want to contribute in a more authentic and significant way, but aren’t sure where to start.”

The annual Make A Difference Day holiday is the largest national day of helping others in the United States.  Founded by USA WEEKEND Magazine in partnership with HandsOn Network 19 years ago, it is also supported by Newman’s Own, the late, great Paul Newman’s social enterprise – which is now run by his daughter, Nell Newman.  In honor of this year’s events, Garlo offers the following tips to help leaders interested in creating a bigger positive impact.

§  Demonstrate your values and interests by contributing your time and skills.  Women business owners have a huge depth of knowledge and professional skills that public benefit organizations need.  Serve on a board or advisory committee to learn more about how public benefit agencies work and help them implement effective, efficient and profitable strategies.  The benefit gained by these agencies and the individuals and community it serves are a part of your personal legacy.

§  Inventory your skills, assets and wealth today. There are three types of legacies: financial only, participation only or a mixture of the two.  Which will yours be?  Take stock today of what you want to accomplish and what you will need to build your legacy.

§  Think big, start small. Many great beneficial causes have started with little money and by very young people.  Start thinking today what steps you can take and what things you can put into place to create your legacy.  Make a plan. Talk to like minded people. Research what it will take to bring your legacy to life.  Such legacy projects are born out of passion and quickly take a life of their own.

§  Planning for the future starts today! Most people think of legacies as an end of life activity!  In fact, more and more individuals are creating lasting legacies while they are still young enough to see them grow and deliver their good work in the world.  It can be an authentic expression of genuine interests, skills you enjoy using, involving and benefitting others from a community you care about, and they are built from inception knowing you’ll step away and allow others to continue.

§  Be inclusive and involve many.  To make a very significant impact on your community, it takes a lot of cooperation and support.  Share your passion.  Invite others to support your vision and goals.  It is a great way to teach another generation about business, wealth and contribution while building your legacy and making a lasting difference in the world.

Garlo is founder of Thrive!! Inc. and a program called Creating Legacy (www.CreatingLegacy.com).  A former critical care nurse and health care attorney turned professionally trained coach, she assists small business owners and professionals with business and strategic marketing development, succession and exit-planning, and life design post-career including legacy development. Garlo brings more than 30 years of professional, writing, speaking and facilitation services – and her own legacy creating experience, establishing the Garlo Heritage Nature Preserve (http://www.senecacounty.com/parks/Garlo.htm) – to bear in helping clients make a difference now that lasts for generations. For more information also visit www.CreatingLegacyNetwork.com.

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contact:

Dolly M. Garlo, RN, JD, PCC
President, Thrive!! Inc.
Email
Mobile: 305-849-8495